IWAY Christmas Charity Bazaar 2021

Beyond social activities and cultural visits, IWAY members are committed to supporting women and children in the remote and border communities of Armenia. To help fulfill this mission, the annual Christmas Charity Bazaar has become a cherished IWAY tradition and the organization’s largest annual fundraising event, supporting philanthropic projects across Armenia.

The 2021 Christmas Charity Bazaar took place on December 5 at the Best Western Plus Congress Hotel. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the difficult period following the Artsakh war, the event brought together a diverse and vibrant community. It welcomed representatives of three diplomatic missions, ten participants supported by the UNHCR’s partner, the Armenian Red Cross Society, six non-governmental organizations, one business school, students from Tavush Province, representatives of the Lithuanian Community, as well as 42 Armenian and international artists, crafters, confectioners, and entrepreneurs.

The proceeds from the Bazaar supported the renovation of two additional classrooms at Drakhtik Village School and the renovation of the canteen at Lchavan Village School in Gegharkunik Province. Remaining funds were allocated to other charitable initiatives, including projects in Mrgashat Village in Armavir Province, as well as additional projects to be evaluated during the following fiscal year.

The 2021 Bazaar was more than a fundraising event—it was a demonstration of solidarity, resilience, and community spirit at a particularly challenging time for Armenia. It provided small businesses and independent creators with an opportunity to showcase and sell their products, while helping IWAY continue its mission of supporting communities in need.

“We were at a period of recovery from the consequences of the Artsakh war, while also facing the threats of COVID-19. Whether to proceed, to dare and make it happen, and how to consolidate efforts at a time when people feared contracting and spreading the disease were all concerns. However, it was the time when Armenia needed us most. Therefore, for the sake of the small enterprises that had a tremendous need for a market to sell their products, and for the sake of the border communities that were becoming less populous, IWAY women decided to tackle all the difficulties and face the challenges. Eventually, the Bazaar was a successful journey.”